DASA (Defence and Security Accelerator)

Overview

DASA is part of the Ministry of Defence and DSTL (Defence Science and Technology Laboratory). It finds and funds exploitable innovation to support UK defence and security — with a strong focus on fast-tracking innovation and supporting UK prosperity.

There are multiple ways to apply, whether you’re addressing a specific government need or have a novel, disruptive idea that doesn’t fit into conventional procurement models.

Project scope

The DASA funding portfolio is split into four key areas:

1. Open Call for Innovation – for novel, cross-cutting ideas even without a defined government requirement.
2. Themed Competitions – targeting specific defence and security challenges.
3. Defence Innovation Loans – to support commercialisation and scaling of mature solutions.
4. Market Exploration – an insight-gathering activity, not a grant, to shape potential future funding rounds.

Key themes and topics

Current themes and topics include:

• Innovation in Support of Operations – enhancing UK operational capability in complex environments.
• Disruptive defence technologies – such as AI, autonomy, cyber, space, energy, and next-gen materials.
• Dual-use technology – with applications across both defence/security and civil sectors.
• Conflict wounds and combat care (upcoming market exploration).
• Broader security solutions – such as border control, infrastructure protection, and emergency response.

Project duration

Each funding stream operates in cycles throughout the year. Current key dates include:

• Open Call (Cycle 3) closes: 23 September 2025
• Themed Competition – Innovation in Support of Operations Phase 2 (Cycle 5) closes: 5 August 2025
• Defence Innovation Loans (FY25/26 Cycle 3) closes: 2 September 2025

Typically, assessments are completed within 7 weeks of submission (excluding holidays).

Award value

Grant sizes vary based on the competition and maturity of the idea. Typical ranges include:

• £50k–£350k for early-stage Open Call projects
• Up to £750k+ for later-stage or multi-phase Themed Competitions
• Loans of up to £2 million via Defence Innovation Loans for commercialisation

Final award sizes are published in each competition document.

Funding rates

• 100% grant funding is available for many Open Call and Themed Competition projects, especially in early stages.
• Defence Innovation Loans require repayment but offer below-market interest rates and generous terms for SMEs.
• Funding is non-dilutive and supports both technical development and business growth.

Eligibility criteria

• Open to UK-registered businesses, including:
  • Startups
  • SMEs
  • Academia
  • Individual innovators (in some cases)
• Defence Innovation Loans are only available to UK-registered single SMEs.
• No need for a prior relationship with MOD or DSTL.

Summary for SMEs

DASA offers a highly flexible and responsive funding route for SMEs looking to scale their defence or dual-use innovations. Whether you're developing early-stage tech, refining a solution with end-users, or scaling commercially, there’s a suitable funding pathway — from grants to innovation loans.

Its Open Call is ideal for speculative or early-phase R&D, while Themed Competitions provide focus and guidance for existing government needs. With regular cycles and clear assessment timelines, it’s a go-to route for SMEs seeking to grow through innovation funding in the defence and security space.